Determining the relationship between VO2max and explosive power of lower leg muscles in soccer and rugby university players

Abstract

The present study investigated the relationship between VO2max and the explosive power of the lower leg for soccer and rugby players. A cross-sectional study design was selected with thirty-four (17-Soccer + 17-Rugby players) male participants who were recruited to conduct this study. Their anthropometric characteristics were as age 21.47 ± 1.67 years, body weight 70.28 ± 8.14 kg., height 176.38 ± 5.42 cm., and BMI 22.55 ± 2.04. A bioelectrical impedance analyser and stadiometer cum weighing scale was used to take anthropometric measurements. The lower leg's explosive power was measured using a single-leg vertical jump and VO2max was measured using the beep test. The study results revealed that there was an insignificant difference in anthropometric characteristics between soccer and rugby players. Relationship between VO2max and explosive power in soccer players showed insignificance relationship (r = .156, p = .549), whereas rugby players showed a significant relationship (r = .499, p = .042) for VO2max and explosive power. Without regard to types of sports, there is an insignificant relationship between both parameters. Thus, there is no effect of VO2max on explosive power in players. We conclude that the VO2max does not affect the explosive power of the lower leg for soccer and rugby players. However, VO2max and explosive power seem not to be associated with each other for soccer and rugby players. Further examination of these measures may indicate the relevance of VO2max and explosive power assessment in monitoring and screening soccer and rugby players by fitness trainers and team coaches.